July 16, 2008 Edition

Freeman resigns as Portia mayor

Portia Mayor Dale Freeman has stepped down from that position. He issued the following statement on Monday:

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the citizens of Portia for all the help and cooperation you have given me. I have resigned as your mayor.

"As most of you know I have moved to Powhatan. No one ran for mayor of Portia or was appointed as mayor, so therefore I legally continued to serve. I asked the city council on numerous occasions to appoint a new mayor, and no one would take the position.

"I did not receive a check for being mayor when I lived in Portia or after I moved. I felt it was a privilege to serve as your mayor.

"I sought the position of county judge against another Portia resident, and now there is a small group of small-minded people saying that I am serving illegally. I felt the best thing for everyone concerned would be for me to resign as I do reside in Powhatan.

"I am very proud of the progress Portia has made under my leadership. Our water treatment plant is one of the best in the state. We have a nice new fire station and truck to provide protection for Portia.

"I hope the next mayor will continue to put the needs of the residents first and take every opportunity to secure grant monies to help the town of Portia."